Wisconsin running back Garrett Groshek’s path is another perfect embodiment of how the football program operates. Groshek, a high school quarterback, said he had opportunities from a handful of lower-level programs, including a preferred walk-on spot as a linebacker at FCS school North Dakota State. Division II Minnesota State Mankato was interested in him as a running back, Winona State wanted him as a quarterback and St. Cloud State pursued him as a linebacker. He accepted a walk-on offer at Wisconsin, beginning his career as a quarterback before moving to running back at the start of his first spring practice.
Groshek admits he would not play at Ohio State. But at Wisconsin, he has become a valuable leader off the field and an important piece on the field, third on the team in rushing yards and fourth in receptions. That may be a good thing or a bad thing, depending your perspective. But it is part of the fabric of the program, which has made a habit of turning walk-ons into players with big roles.
